Kenya Ice Lions: The Rise of Ice Hockey in East Africa

Kenya joined Algeria, Morocco, Tunisia and South Africa in the 84-member African cohort at the IIHF, but captain Mburu says the next step will prove to be the toughest.

“Now we have to reach the IIHF standards and that’s where our work is cut out,” he explained.

But this is a team that has already faced many challenges, not least establishing itself in a sport almost unheard of in East Africa.

The Ice Lions were formed by a group of expats from the United States and Canada who organized a recruitment drive.

Since roller hockey is more accessible and popular in Kenya, many newer members have been scouted when they wear skates with wheels rather than blades.

Tim Colby, who has coached the Ice Lions since their inception, says the love of the sport and dedication have brought the team this far.

“Playing ice hockey on the equator is not easy,” the Canadian told the BBC.

“The biggest challenge is ice weather. Access to ice is expensive.”

Just one hour on the ice rink at the Panari Hotel costs nearly $100.

These high percentages mean that the team can usually only train once a week.

Their home is also a quarter the size of an Olympic rink, so the Ice Lions are limited to playing four-on-four games (including goalies).

Full games are six a side and require a goalkeeper, two defenders and three forwards.

Colby adds that finding enough protective gear for the team is proving difficult.

“We need a lot of specialized equipment and it’s only available in Europe and North America,” he said.

For the first few years, many players wore only shin pads, forgoing equipment such as helmets.

Changing hockey sticks can also take several months.